ASSOCIATE Magazine FBINAA Q4-2025

FBI National Academy Associates, Inc., National Academy Building 8-102 Quantico, VA 22135

IN SIDE

FBINAA.ORG | Q4 2025

F EATURE S 12 From Member to Participant: Upholding the Legacy of the FBI National Academy – John Rowan, NA Session 236 16 Verizon Satellite Connectivity Empowers First Responders – Cory Davis, Vice President, Verizon Frontline 20 Culture and Investigative Interviews: A Tool for Rapport Building and Information Elicitation – Emma K. Goldsby 26 AI in Digital Forensics and the Future of Law Enforcement – Trey Amick, Vice President, Product & Technical Marketing at Magnet Forensics 30 Smarter Response, Safer Cities: Real Results from DFR Programs - Skydio COLUMNS 04 Association Update 11 National Office Update 24 National Academy Update 28 Historian’s Spotlight 34 A Message from Our Chaplain EACH ISSUE 06 Strategic / Academic Alliances AD INDEX – 5.11 05 Verizon 25 UVA 29 Panasonic 37 CRI-TAC – JFCU

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NATIONAL BOARD Association President / WILLIAM J. CARBONE Detective (OSI) NYS. Attorney General’s Office, New York City Police Department (Ret.), bcarbone@fbinaa.org Past President / CRAIG PETERSEN Deputy Chief, Gulfport Police Department (MS) (Ret.), cpetersen@fbinaa.org 1st Vice President / JIM GALLAGHER Assistant Chief, Maricopa Community Colleges Police Department jgallagher@fbinaa.org

Section II Representative / JASON HESTER Chief of the Infrastructure Operations Division, Texas Department of Public Safety, jhester@fbinaa.org

Section III Representative / JAMES “JIMMY” CRAYTON Chief, Wallace Police Department (NC), jcrayton@fbinaa.org

Section IV Representative / STEPHEN HRYTZIK Chief of Law Enforcement Accreditation, Ohio Department of Public Safety, Office of Criminal Justice Services (OH), shrytzik@fbinaa.org

Chaplain / KEVIN JENSEN Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, Captain (Ret.), kjensen@fbinaa.org

2nd Vice President / LARRY DYESS Captain, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (LA), ldyess@fbinaa.org

Historian / JOHN SIMMONS Chief of Police (Ret.), Mission Police Department (KS), jsimmons@fbinaa.org

3rd Vice President / TIM CANNON Special Agent Supervisor, Florida Lottery (FL), tcannon@fbinaa.org

Executive Director / JEFF MCCORMICK FBINAA National Office (VA), jmccormick@fbinaa.org

Section I Representative / BILL GARDINER Colonel/Director, Idaho State Police, bgardiner@fbinaa.org

NATIONAL OFFICE STAFF DIRECTORY Executive Director, JEFF MCCORMICK 703.632.1901 jmccormick@fbinaa.org

Membership Coordinator, MARY MAGUIRE 703.632.1994 mmaguire@fbinaa.org Retail Operations Manager, JAXI STOUT 703.632.1902 jstout@fbinaa.org

Executive Assistant, ANDREA CRAWFORD 703.632.3052 acrawford@fbinaa.org

Retail Associate, LAUREN JACK 703.632.1902 ljack@fbinaa.org

Director of Marketing and Communications, RILEY MORAN 731.819.2000 rmoran@fbinaa.org

Director of Education and Training, TONY BAILEY , NA Session 242 470.955.9786 tbailey@fbinaa.org

Brand and Marketing Manager, KEVIN WARREN 731.513.0147 kwarren@fbinaa.org

Education & Training Assistant, DONNA SAVINE 703.632.1867 dsavine@fbinaa.org

Director of Strategic Partnerships, JOHN DeVOE , NA Session 252 551.800.7789 jdevoe@fbinaa.org

Chief Financial Officer, KORRI ROPER 703.632.1911 kroper@fbinaa.org Comptroller, DENISE MACLANE 703.632.1935 dmaclane@fbinaa.org

Partnership Coordinator, TAYLOR JACK 703.632.1902 tjack@fbinaa.org

Director of Member Services, JENNIFER WATSON 571.329.1528 jwatson@fbinaa.org Membership and Database Manager, RENEE REYNOLDS 703.632.1944 rreynolds@fbinaa.org

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Q4 2025 | Volume 27, Number 4 The Associate is a publication of the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc.

FBINAA.ORG | Q4 2025

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The Associate is published quarterly by the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc., National Office, FBI Academy, Quantico, VA 22135.

The FBI National Academy Associates, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization and is not part of the Federal Bureau of Investigation or acting on the FBI’s behalf. Email editorial submissions to rmoran@fbinaa.org. Submissions may vary in length from 500-2000 words, and shall not be submitted simultaneously to other publications. Please see our Submission Guidelines at www.fbinaa.org/ magazine/associate-magazine for more information. The FBI National Academy Associates, Inc., the National Board and the editors of the Associate neither endorse nor guarantee completeness or accuracy of material used that is obtained from sources considered reliable, nor accept liability resulting from the adoption or use of any methods, procedures, recommendations, or statements recommended or implied.

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On the Cover: From Member to Participant: Upholding the Legacy of the FBI National Academy.

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ASSOCIATION UPDATE

Bill Carbone

T he National Board is made up of 11 law enforcement profes sionals from across the United States who volunteer their time to advance the association and uphold its reputation. Their diverse experience and backgrounds strengthen the Board’s impact. Here is some background on each member. William Carbone | President 2025-2026 Bill Carbone has been married to his high school sweetheart, Phyllis, since 1982. Born and raised in Queens, N.Y., they currently live on Long Island, N.Y. Both recently retired from law enforce ment careers. Bill spent just over 44 years in law enforcement; 39 with the NYPD and five with the NYS DCJS and Attorney General’s Office. Phyllis served the Nassau County Police Department for 25 years, retiring from the communication and case offense bureaus. Their son is a detective lieutenant with the NYPD, representing the fifth generation of their family to be part of the department. Bill enjoys watching his grandchildren play sports in his limited spare time. As a former high school and college level baseball umpire, Bill enjoys watching the games far away from the parents to avoid conflict during questionable calls during the games. Bill can usually be found behind the right field fence, especially when his grandsons are on the mound. Bill and Phyllis also attend the recitals when their talented grandchildren per form. Their granddaughter will be playing the piano at Carnegie Hall in the spring of 2026. Bill spends time at the local parks of Nassau County, N.Y., enjoying the weather and interacting with the community. An enthusiastic outdoor cook, he also practices ice bath plunges during warmer evenings. Bill is the owner and operator of a consulting firm specializing in police use of force defense and in investigations into officer-involved critical incidents. https:// Craig Petersen was born into a military family. He was born in Texas but lived in Mississippi, Germany, and finally Arkan sas where his father retired. Craig attended middle school and high school in Gosnel, Ark., where the graduating class was 100 people. Craig played basketball and baseball while in school. After high school, Craig relocated to Gulfport, Miss., where he attended University of Southern Mississippi, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Craig became a partner in a business called Maximum Auto Parts in 1992. In 1997, Craig sold his shares in the company and joined the Gulfport Police Department. Craig served that agency for the next 25 years, holding positions from patrol officer, to deputy chief of police. Craig also received his master’s degree from Delta State University and has served as an adjunct professor at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and at William Carey University. Craig is now one of the owners and co-founders of TGR Tech nologies, a company that sells unique public safety technology solutions. Outside of his career, Craig has many hobbies. He has been a radio DJ for local radio stations, Coast 102 and Kicker 108, has earned a black belt in Taekwondo, is a huge Elvis fan (and www.criticalincidentdefense.com Craig Petersen | Past President

visited Graceland 14 times). He is a guitar player and can play three chords. He also ran a local youth sports association for kids aged 5-12 for 14 years. He coached football, basketball, and baseball during that time as well. Craig currently serves as the vice chair of the Gulfport Youth Sports Commission, after being appointed by the mayor in early 2025. Craig is married to the love of his life and best friend, Michelle, and he has two step sons, Ray and James. He has two dogs, Maverick and Bailey. James Gallagher | Ist Vice President Jim Gallagher is a proud graduate of the 245th Session of the FBI National Academy, a second generation police officer from a large NYPD family now in his 30th year in law enforce ment, a husband, a father and an unwavering advocate for law enforcement across the country. Originally from Staten Island, N.Y., he graduated from Ari zona State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and completed an internship with the Phoenix Police Depart ment in 1995. Upon graduation, he attended the Phoenix Regional Police Academy and began a 27-year career with the Phoenix Police Department in which he held assignments in every section of the department. Jim retired from the Phoenix Police Department as a com mander in 2022 and became chief of police for the Central Arizo na Project, a specialty department responsible for protecting the State of Arizona's most critical infrastructure: its water. In 2023, Jim joined the Maricopa Community Colleges Police Department where he serves as assistant chief of police providing leadership to one of the largest college districts in the country and serving a student population of nearly 200,000 students. Jim is married to Kim, a successful business owner. To gether they have six kids ranging in age from 25 to 13 and while they live in the sunshine of Scottsdale, they love to travel. In the last three years they have been to 12 foreign countries through out Asia and the Caribbean.

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He holds a master’s in public administration from Florida State University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 234. His executive training includes the FBI National Executive Insti tute and several advanced law enforcement leadership programs. A past president of the Florida FBINAA Chapter, Tim was elected to the FBINAA National Board in 2021 and currently serves as 3rd Vice President. He lives in Tallahassee with his wife, Kelly and their two Shih tzus,Maddie and Cooper. Bill Gardiner | Section I Representative Bill Gardiner is a proud graduate of the FBI National Acad emy, Session 238. He is director of the Idaho State Police, where he has worked for the past 26 years, starting as a trooper in the patrol division. His time on the road taught him about the true meaning of service. "Each time I put on the uniform and patrolled Idaho’s highways, I learned that my role went beyond maintaining order—it was about finding opportunities to serve others,” he said. That same sense of purpose followed him to the National Academy in 2009. As his passion for the association grew, so did his desire to give back. He became active in his chapter and eventually had the privilege of serving as chapter president. He also worked closely with the Youth Leadership Program, first as a counselor and later as director. He said, “This Association is built on a foundation of service—members supporting one another in a unique community of law enforcement professionals united by a common bond. That connection is more than just a benefit; it’s the heart of who we are. I encourage every member to embrace this spirit and look for ways to serve each other.” Jason Hester | Section II Representative Jason Hester began his law enforcement career with the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Department before graduating from the DPS Academy in 1997 and being stationed in Big Spring. He was promoted to Highway Patrol Sergeant in 2003 and to Lieu tenant in 2008, serving in Del Rio and later San Angelo, where he supervised Highway Patrol operations across 18 counties. In 2010, Jason became Captain of Law Enforcement Education and Recruiting, followed by a promotion to Major in 2013, oversee ing recruiting and training operations statewide. He later served with the Texas Highway Patrol Division, managing personnel, specialized units, and equipment procurement. In 2019, he was promoted to Assistant Chief of the Regulatory Services Division, and in 2023, he became Chief of the Infrastructure Operations Division, where he continues to serve. Jason holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Tarleton State University, where he also serves as an adjunct faculty member. A graduate of the 251st Session of the FBI National Academy, he holds a Master Peace Officer and Advanced Instructor license from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. He is active in several professional organizations and has served as a commissioner for the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement since 2013. Outside of work, Jason enjoys spending time on the lake with his boys, playing golf, and hunting. James Crayton | Section III Representative James “Jimmy” Crayton grew up in southeastern North Carolina, where life on the water was second nature. If it could be pulled behind a boat, he was on it. Water skiing, wakeboard ing, tubing, going barefoot, or just chasing the next sunset across glassy water, home was on the water. In that part of the state, “ski season” runs from March through November, and he made the most of every warm Carolina day. continued on page 9

Jim is a “comic book geek” with a collection of more than 5,000 comic books, pieces of original artwork and memorabilia; his favorite superhero is Green Lantern, an intergalactic police man from DC Comics. He earned a master’s degree in admin istration from Northern Arizona University and a doctorate in organizational leadership studies from Northeastern University, and has been on faculty at Arizona State University for the last 13 years. He is a subject matter expert in human and sex trafficking and has been published extensively on the topic in academic journals and presented his research around the world. His doctoral research focused on how cops are natural storytellers and how these stories frame our perceptions of our personal and professional reality. Larry Dyess | 2nd Vice President Larry Dyess has been in law enforcement for 33 years, start ing his career with the New Orleans Police Department in 1992 as a reserve police officer. He transferred to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, as a full-time patrol deputy in 1996 where he is still currently employed. During his career, his assignments consisted of patrol dep uty, special victims section detective, robbery squad sergeant detective, spokesperson (PIO) for the department, commander of the special victims investigative section, hostage negotiator, and district commander, where he is currently assigned and works with approximately 80 patrol district personnel. Larry attended the FBI National Academy in 2016 and was elected class president of his Section, 263. After graduation, he became active in the Louisiana Chapter, rising to the level of LA Chapter President in 2020 and Chair of the 2020 FBINAA National Training Conference in New Orleans (that never was). He was elected to the FBI National Academy Associates National Board in 2020 and currently holds the position of 2nd Vice President, hailing from Section II which consists of 13 FBINAA Chapters as well as Africa and the Middle East. As a National Board Member, he has chaired and co-chaired numerous national committees and is currently the chair of the Youth Leadership Program. Larry is happily married to Lena, his wife and best friend of 30 years. Lena has supported all of his ef forts during his law enforcement career as well as his time on the FBINAA National Board. Larry and Lena are the proud parents of three children, Lenna, Allen, and Brianna and four grandchildren. Larry is an active member in his local community serving as a committee member of church and other civic organizations. He enjoys spending time at his vacation home on the Gulf Coast in Mississippi. Hobbies outside the job include boating, fishing, kayaking and church ministries. Tim Cannon | 3rd Vice President Tim Cannon brings more than 40 years of law enforcement experience at the county and state levels, including leadership roles in criminal investigations, homeland security, emergency management, and aviation. He retired as a captain after 25 years with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Orlando and later served with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Florida Depart ment of Financial Services as a Lt. Colonel. He now serves with the Florida Lottery Law Enforcement Division. In 2008, Tim was selected as the 25th Leadership Fellow for the FBI Training Division, teaching leadership and ethics at the FBI National Academy and internationally.

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John Simmons | National Historian John Simmons was born in Southern California and raised in Michigan. Immediately following high school graduation in 1978, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a military policeman. Fol lowing tours in Germany and Alabama, he served as an Army CID Special Agent in Virginia. Following graduation from Officer Candidate School, he was commissioned as an armor officer and served in Cavalry assignments at Fort Knox, Ky., before returning to the Military Police Regiment. The remainder of his Army career included tours in Germany, Florida, Kansas, Johnson Atoll (in the Pacific Ocean) and Kansas (again).He retired in 2000 as a major while serving as the Provost Marshal for Fort Leavenworth. Simmons’ civilian law enforcement career included serving as the police chief in Lansing, Fairway and Mission – all in Kansas near Kansas City. He was blessed to be selected to attend the FBI National Academy’s 215th Session and graduated in December of 2003. He became active in the Kansas/Western Missouri Chapter and served nearly eight years as the chapter’s secretary/treasurer. Simmons retired from law enforcement at the end of 2013 and was hired in early 2014 by CZ-USA, a national firearms manufacturer/importer, to establish a national law enforce ment/military sales program. He introduced CZ and Dan Wesson firearms to first responders throughout the country. The position also allowed him to become a sponsor at many chapter events. In 2022, he retired for a third time and decided to make it last! His role as the NA’s national historian began in 2023 and he is half way through his four-year term. Jeff McCormick | Executive Director Jeff McCormick brings more than 30 years of law enforce ment experience to the FBI National Academy Associates (FBI NAA) as its Executive Director. An FBI Special Agent for more than 20 years, McCormick served in the Philadelphia, Springfield, Cincinnati, and Pitts burgh Field Divisions. He also spent time at FBI Headquarters in the Counterterrorism and Training Divisions. At the FBI Academy, McCormick served as the Chief of the FBI National Academy Unit (FBINA). For more than three years at the FBINA, he was respon sible for the training of more than 3,000 law enforcement profes sionals from around the globe. After retiring from the FBI, McCormick was appointed chief of police at Fairmont State University in West Virginia, where he also developed and launched a new police academy. Prior to joining the FBI, McCormick served as a patrolman, then detective for the Perry, Ga., Police Department, and as a lieuten ant for the Valdosta, Ga., Police Department. McCormick was also the accreditation manager for both departments, leading each to national accreditation. McCormick holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree from the American Military University. He and his wife Shirlene have four children and seven grandchildren.

After earning his bachelor’s degree, he followed in his par ents’ footsteps and spent a year teaching in the classroom before realizing his true calling was in public service. He transitioned into law enforcement, where his natural ability to connect with others and explain complex ideas translated into a passion for instruction. Today, he channels his educator’s heart into teaching a wide range of law enforcement programs, helping officers grow both personally and professionally. Whether on the water or in the training room, his approach remains the same: steady, genuine, and focused on bringing out the best in those around him. Jimmy looks forward to serving the FBINAA with that same mindset. Steve Hrytzik | Section IV Representative Originally from Pittsburgh, Pa. Stephen Hrytzik moved to Ohio when he was in high school. He currently serves as the chief of law enforcement accreditation for the Department of Public Safety (DPS). Prior to working for DPS, he was a member of the Powell Police Department from 1991 – 2023, retiring as chief of police in 2023. Steve graduated with honors from Mount Vernon Nazarene University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He is a graduate of the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police Police Executive Leadership College Session 22 and attended the 221st session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy. Steve currently serves as the Section IV Representative for the FBI National Academy Associates National Board. When Steve was just starting his career as a police officer, he had an interesting experience. At 22 years old, he was assigned to work un dercover in a high school, where he pretended to be a 16-year-old sophomore (yes, he looked that young and had a lot more hair!). Since only a few administrators knew he was undercover, he had to do all the homework and attend classes. He spent six months in the school, before the assignment ended and arrests were made. Sheryl and Steve have been married for 29 years. They have two grown children who are both married: Chris (Kylie) Hrytzik and Madison (Peyton) Finneran. They were blessed by the birth of their first grandchild, Callie Shea Finneran, in the spring of 2025. Kevin Jensen | National Chaplain National Chaplain Kevin Jensen and his wife of 42 years, a teaching leader for 30 years for a Bible Study Fellowship, both come from challenging family backgrounds. Because of the support they received early in life, they find great joy in serving others and offering the same help they once needed.They have been blessed with three children and 10 grandchildren. Kevin has served as CEO Regional Public Safety Training, Sher iff’s Office/Corrections (Assistant Chief, Coroner, Fusion Center, Patrol, SWAT, IA, Investigations, Courts…), Church board and Kiwanis, DSA Rep, coaching, and extremely grateful to give back to the FBI for the greatest career gift (NA Session 222) - FBINAA (2 years/President) 7 year CA Board. Additionally, San Francisco Chapter and National President (7 years FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association National Board) helping the FBI improve relationships with communities throughout the U.S. via our training, education and outreach. Decades ago, Law Enforcement gave a 21 year old father of two an honorable calling/occupation. I am grateful to continue giving back – currently, through consulting, instructing (Leader ship, Management, Ethics for Law Enforcement/others), and most recently - following Mike Hardee and those before him in serving our unique and amazing NA family as FBINAA Chaplain. Blessings

FBINAA.ORG | Q4 2025

Bill Carbone 2025-2026 FBINAA President NA Session 217

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NATIONAL OFFICE UPDATE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

FBINAA.ORG | Q4 2025

Jeff McCormick

Welcome to 2026!

T his promises to be another exciting year for the FBI National Academy Associates. We look forward to adding another 1,000 graduates to our rolls this year as we welcome Sessions 297, 298, 299, and the 300th Session this October! For those members of the Association who graduated before our 2026 sessions, thank you for staying engaged with the FBINAA. The FBINAA is here to serve those lucky, honored few who were selected to attend the FBI National Academy, and to provide a way for them to continue to give back to their com rades, their communities, and to the profession of law enforce ment. We are constantly looking to add value to your member ship and develop ways for you to continue to “pay forward” the professional and personal benefits you gained through atten dance at the FBI National Academy. For the 14,000+ members of the FBINAA, there will be many exciting opportunities to stay engaged and in touch with others in the LE community, those still on the job, and those who have retired. Each of our 44 domestic and four international chapters are hard at work planning engaging events that showcase their regions, provide opportunities to reunite and network with other graduates, and take advantage of meaningful and timely training opportunities. There are many ways to give back at the Chapter level, serving on a board in an elected position, or volunteering some time to help with one of their many initiatives. There are many opportunities to serve on committees, at both the Chapter and National levels. At the National level, I am so proud of our National Board and your National Office Team. Their enthusiasm and love for this Association is evident every day. They are planning (with the New York/Eastern Canada Chapter) a simply amazing National Conference in Niagara Falls, Canada, June 27-30 (make sure your passports are up to date!) There will be great speakers, training sessions, and more family focused activities than ever! Addition ally, we are expanding the reach of our FBINAA training programs.

Be on the lookout for opportunities in your area to attend or send someone from your agency. Our marketing and communications team are showcasing the terrific work of our Association and its members on social media and through direct communications. And our relationships continue to deepen with our wonderful sponsors, who become part of our extended NAA family. We are beginning to wrap up our annual renewal campaign, a bit earlier than we traditionally do. As I’m sure you have seen by now, this year’s theme highlights that our MEMBERS are the most valuable piece of the NAA puzzle. None of the good work the Associ ation does, the reach and reliability of the network of NA graduates, the training of rising law enforcement leaders, could occur without the commitment by the graduates of the NA to their Association. Thanks to each of you who graduated, from Session One to 296, and are still members of the NAA. YOU ARE the most valuable piece, and an inspiration for those from 297 and beyond.

Warmest Regards,

Jeff McCormick FBINAA Executive Director

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From MEMBER to PARTICIPANT: UPHOLDING THE LEGACY OF THE FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY The FBI National Academy (FBINA) is more than a training program —it is a crucible of leadership, integrity, and lifelong connection. Since its founding in 1935 under the direction of J. Edgar Hoover, the Academy has served as a beacon for law enforcement professionals seeking to elevate their craft and forge lasting bonds across agencies, borders, and generations. Graduates of the Academy—less than 1% of law enforcement professionals—join an elite network defined not only by achievement, but by responsibility. Y et within this network, there is a critical distinction that must be made: the difference between being a member and being a participant. MEMBERSHIP VS. PARTICIPATION: A CALL TO ACTION Being a member of the FBI National Academy Associates (FBINAA) is simple. It requires payment of an nual dues and grants access to a range of benefits—resources, events, and a shared identity. But participa tion demands more. It requires commitment, engagement, and a willingness to give back. To be a participant means: • Engaging fellow graduates in both professional and personal circumstances, offering support, insight, and camaraderie. • Growing the organization by encouraging others to become active participants and stewards of its mission. • Subscribing to the values of the FBINAA—integrity, leadership, and service—and living them in daily practice. • Promoting the organization through active involvement in events, conferences, and community outreach. Participation is not passive. It is a choice to uphold the standard represented by the Yellow Brick—a symbol earned through perseverance, discipline, and unity. THE YELLOW BRICK: A SYMBOL OF SHARED RESPONSIBILITY As I reflect on the Yellow Brick I earned nearly 17 years ago during the 236th Session, I am reminded of what it truly represents. It is more than a memento—it is a standard. It ties me to the 250 professionals who trained alongside me, the 235 sessions that came before, and the 60 that have followed. It is a reminder that I am part of something greater: a living legacy of law enforcement excellence. JOHN ROWAN, NA SESSION 236

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Throughout my career, I have leaned on fellow graduates for guidance, support, and collaboration—often in moments that transcended the formal benefits of membership. These connec tions are priceless. They are the true value of the FBINAA, and they are only unlocked through active participation. SHAPING THE FUTURE TOGETHER Too often, we hear the question, “What’s in it for me?” But as graduates of the FBI National Academy, we already received what others wait years to earn. We were selected, trained, and wel comed into the greatest law enforcement network in the world. Now, it is our turn to give back—to honor those who came before us and to support those who will follow. Displaying the Yellow Brick in your office or adding the FBI NAA logo to your email signature is not enough. The future of this organization depends on those who choose to participate, not just belong. As the torch passes from one generation to the next, we each have the opportunity—and the obligation—to shape the path forward.

About the Author: John Rowan started his journey with the Suffolk County Police Department in 1993 and retired in 2024 as the Chief of Detectives. During his tenure, he played a significant role with executive oversight in the department’s arrest in the decades-old Gilgo Beach Killer case, which charged the suspect with multiple murders of females. This case is ongoing as it progresses through the court system. Throughout his career, John held several supervisory roles, including Commanding Officer of the 3rd Precinct from 2018 to 2022 and Commanding Officer of the Major Crimes Bureau from 2017 to 2018, where he oversaw Homicide,

Major Case, Special Victims, and Hate Crimes. He also served as the primary liaison with federal agencies investigating MS-13 murders during this period. In January 2018, he traveled to El Salvador and was recognized by Homeland Security for his participation in Operation Matador, a joint task force investigating MS-13 activities. Additionally, he served as a Captain in Internal Affairs and as the Commanding Officer of the First Squad Detectives, where he held the rank of Detective Lieutenant. Currently, John serves as the Senior Vice President for Conflict International, a global business intelligence and investigations firm, with a focus on US operations. John holds a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Leadership from St. John’s University, earning a Certificate of Excellence. He received his Bachelor of Arts de gree in 1991 from the University of Delaware, where he was a member of the NCAA lacrosse team. John attended the 236th Session of the FBI National Academy and has been actively involved in planning the Nassau/Suffolk Luncheon and Bart Hose Shoot ever since. In 2019, he was honored with the Chapter’s Bart Hose Award for Excel lence and received the Joseph Monteith Award in 2023.

Let us rise to that challenge. Let us be participants.

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Verizon satellite connectivity empowers first responders

CORY DAVIS, VICE PRESIDENT, VERIZON FRONTLINE

Emergency responders need to communicate seamlessly with each other when responding to a wide range of emergencies. The powerful combination of Verizon’s robust terrestrial network and satellite back-up make it happen. V erizon is the first wireless carrier in the U.S. to enable cus tomers to send text messages by satellite to anyone in the country while in a dead zone1. If you’re hiking deep in a national park, being able to text loved ones (and rangers, if needed) via your smartphone is a remarkable safety advance. But satellite connectivity means much more to public safety personnel who protect their communities whenever disaster strikes. More than 45,000 public safety agencies rely on Verizon Frontline—our advanced network and technology solution for first responders— for reliable, fast connectivity. Here, I take a closer look at how Verizon satellite connectivity helps them achieve their mission and protect their communities. MEETING THE NEED OF FIRST RESPONDERS. Improving the consistency of mission-critical communica tion during emergencies is a top concern among police and fire departments, EMTs and other first responders. In fact, we surveyed more than 1,000 public safety professionals recently2 and found that a growing number of first responders considered a reliable and resilient network to be the most critical feature for day-to-day communication (75%) and emergency response (73%). And 86% said that smartphones are used exten sively for daily communication in the field. “Smartphones are cur rently the most used technology by public safety professionals,

and that is expected to remain the case,” states the report. Recognizing that first responders need reliable, available smart phone connectivity, no matter where they are, we partnered with satellite innovator Skylo to add mission-critical satellite connec tivity to Verizon Frontline in early 2025. Verizon Frontline is already the #1 network choice in public safety. 3 Now, with satellite connectivity, its capabilities are even more powerful. Here are just some of the ways that satellite connectivity Verizon Frontline helps first responders protect lives: Know more, sooner. With satellite-capable smartphones, first responders can send urgent text messages—keeping critical communication flow ing. Satellite coverage can be a communication lifeline during emergency events, when terrestrial networks may be unavailable or out of reach. For example, firefighters responding to fires in remote areas without traditional terrestrial wireless coverage can send text messages and provide their location—critical capabili ties during a fast-moving fire. 4 Respond quickly and completely. Responding quickly and effectively during an emergency is vital to any public safety agency. It can help reduce the impact of any emergency event—and even save lives. When every second counts, satellite connectivity can help first responders make deci sions based on the most current information available.

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These include our Satellite Pico-cell on Trailer (SPOT) mobile con nectivity trailer solution, Satellite Cell on Light Truck (SAT-COLT) asset with onboard masts and satellite equipment, Business Inclusive Satellite Onboard Nomadic (BISON) multipurpose trailer with satellite connectivity—as well as our Tactical Humanitarian Operations Response (THOR) mobile cell site on a tactical vehicle. These assets provide temporary network access for first responders and in areas with limited permanent infrastructure, or for linking cell sites to the broader network when fiber cables are compromised due to power outages or physical damage. For extra reliability, the VFCRT supports its satellite assets with more than 800 portable generators and a robust, prearranged refueling program—all work to keep contingency plans on target. All satellite connectivity solutions are not the same. Satellites are categorized based on their altitude—Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Me dium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Geostationary Orbit (GEO). Depend ing on the situation, there are benefits to each and the VFCRT can use all three types of satellite connectivity during a crisis. Building on decades of satellite experience and expertise. You may have seen the Verizon commercials announcing our initial satellite connectivity offerings, which featured legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin. But this high-profile announcement builds on Verizon’s years of behind-the-scenes (and in the lab) experi ence exploring and using satellite connectivity. For example, Ve rizon already uses our satellite-based portable network assets to help enable connectivity when fiber cables are compromised. We can supplement our terrestrial network with satellite connectivity to provide connectivity to customers in remote areas. And since they can be set up quickly, satellite connections provide a fast way to get cell sites up and running until we can establish a more

"Smartphones are currently the most used technology by public safety professionals, and that is expected to remain the case." – Verizon Frontline Fifth Annual Public Safety Communications Survey

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Improved situational awareness. The more first responders know about conditions on the ground, the better. A quick text message from the first to reach the frontline can help the rest of the team make more informed decisions and respond quickly. Add an extra layer of connectivity. Emergency responders like to have redundant equipment available in case of a failure. This same approach holds true for connectivity. Even when terrestrial wireless communications (or radio communications) are available, satellite connectivity pro vides a backup channel if needed—letting emergency responders stay connected. SATELLITE-BASED ASSETS DELIVER EVEN MORE SUPPORT. The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team (VFCRT) pro vides on-demand emergency assistance to government agencies, first responders, frontline workers and communities—helping establish and maintain mission-critical communications during hurricanes, fires, floods or other disasters. Among the VFCRT’s industry-leading fleet of portable assets, you’ll find nearly three hundred satellite-based assets with standalone power and backhaul connections that link agencies to the Verizon network.

robust, high-capacity connection. LOOKING TO THE FUTURE.

I’m excited to see Verizon satellite connectivity aiding the hard work of emergency responders across the U.S. But these initial offerings are only the beginning. As we expand our satel lite connectivity options, there’ll be even more innovations, all

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2026 NIAGARA FALLS, ONTARIO JUNE 27-30 HOSTED BY THE NEW YORK/ EASTERN CANADA CHAPTER

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CULTURE AND INVESTIGATIVE INTERVIEWS: A TOOL FOR RAPPORT BUILDING AND INFORMATION ELICITATION

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EMMA K. GOLDSBY

Investigative interviews play a critical role in gathering information from suspects, witnesses, and victims. Traditional interrogation techniques, commonly rooted in Western communication norms, may be ineffective when applied to differing cultural contexts. A s law enforcement personnel navigate increasingly complex operational landscapes, understanding and leaning into cultural aspects specific to an interviewee can aid in efficiently building trust and collecting more reliable information. INVESTIGATIVE INTERVIEWS Popular investigative interviewing techniques prioritize CULTURE AND COMMUNICATION PATTERNS AND PREFERENCES Cultural frameworks shape how individuals communicate and interact. Studies on culture and communication consistently highlight several key theories. At the forefront is Edward Hall’s concept of high- and low-context cultures, which suggests that societies differ when communicating (Hall 1976; Hall & Hall, 1990). • High-Context Cultures: Value relationships and communicate through cues and norms • Low-Context Cultures: Value individualism and tasks and communicate directly

rapport and cooperation. Training law enforcement personnel in rapport- and evidence-based practices has improved relation ship dynamics, trust, and information disclosure in interview settings (Brimbal et al., 2021). This is illustrated by the success of the PEACE model. While cognitive interviewing focuses on enhancing memory retrieval through various recall techniques, the PEACE (Preparation, Engage, Account, Closure, Evaluation) interview model emphasizes the importance of active listening and rapport-building. Grounded in psychological research related to memory storage and recall, the model also accounts for how interviewer behaviors impact interviewees (Roberts, 2011). Ad ditional research indicates that trust is associated with higher quality disclosures, particularly in high-stakes situations.

High-context cultures commonly use implicit forms of communication, strongly relying on body language and shared knowledge. Conversely, in low-context cultures, explicit verbal communication is the norm. While most cultures exist on a con tinuum between the two, sharing high and low context character istics, preferred communication forms are also guided by these differentiations. For instance, high-context cultures prefer longer and verbal communications, while low-context populations gen erally enjoy frequent, quick, and written messages.

Figure 1: The effectiveness of strategies differs across various cultural contexts

CULTURAL CONTEXT

COMMUNICATION STYLE

INTERVIEW EFFECTIVENESS

POSSIBLE APPLICATIONS

Rational arguments and rational persuasion are more effective in eliciting case-related, personal information

More responsive to rational arguments and individual focused strategies

Low-Context Cultures

Direct, content-oriented

More responsive to rapport-building efforts and context-focused approaches

Demonstrating active listening is most effective; direct approaches may garner negative responses

High-Context Cultures

Indirect, relationship-oriented

Empathy and procedural fairness are important across cultures; liking and reciprocity are most common, overall

Effectiveness depends on matching strategies to cultural contexts

Varies, dependent on cultural background

Cross-Cultural

Sources: Beune, Giebels, & Taylor; Baker-Eck, Bull, & Walsh, 2020; Beune et al., 2010; Beune, 2009; Beune, Giebels, & Sanders, 2009; Chenier et al., 2022; Goodman-Delahunty & Howes, 2016

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Figure 2: Cultural understanding can positively contribute to rapport-building and information gathering in interviews

DEMONSTRATIONS OF CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

RAPPORT IMPACT

INFORMATION YIELD

POSSIBLE APPLICATIONS

Adapt communication styles to mirror an interviewee’s cultural background

Recognition of communication differences

Enhances initial rapport-building

Facilitates more relevant questioning

Incorporate cultural knowledge into interview planning and execution

Encourages more open and detailed responses

Awareness of cultural norms and values

Builds trust and respect

Reduces perceived threat and increases comfort

May lead to more voluntary information sharing

Use procedurally fair practices and explain processes clearly

Understanding power dynam ics

Approach sensitive topics with cultural awareness and respect

Helps overcome barriers to rapport

May uncover previously with held information

Recognition of cultural mis trust or trauma

Strengthens interpersonal connection

Increases willingness to share sensitive information

Practice active listening and demonstrate genuine interest

Empathy across cultural lines

Sources: Beune, Giebels, & Taylor; Baker-Eck, Bull, & Walsh, 2020; Beune, 2009; Giebels, & Sanders, 2009; Chenier et al., 2022; Goodman-Delahunty & Howes, 2016; Goodman-Delahunty, O’Brien, & Gumbert, 2014; Kim, Allison, & Christiansen, 2020

ing throughout an interview may help when delving into more granular details later on. This tactic may not be ideal when work ing with someone from an individualistic culture, as they may respond more favorably when given the opportunity to discuss opinions or achievements. (For more research-based implications and applications, see Figures 1, 2.) Furthermore, politeness theory and face-saving theory (Brown & Levinson, 1987; Ting-Toomey, 1985) highlight that many cultures stress the importance of ‘saving face’ and avoid ing direct confrontation, which can impact how individuals may respond to situations and questions. CULTURAL COMPETENCE AS A TOOL IN INTERVIEWS & INVESTIGATIONS Rapport is demonstratively the backbone of investigative interviews. Strong understandings of cultural norms enable law enforcement officers to create more comfortable environments that promote information disclosure. A lack or misapplication of cultural awareness could result in miscommunication, resis tance, and reduced disclosure. In many cultures, aspects such as indirect communication, hierarchical deference, and unique conceptualizations of truthfulness shape the way individuals may respond to questioning. Without cultural competence, law enforcement officers may misinterpret behaviors, inadvertently violate preferred social norms, or fail to establish strong rapport, ultimately hindering the full potential of investigations.

Complementing Hall’s theory is Geert Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory, which provides a framework for understand ing how cultural values influence a wide range of behaviors and attitudes across different societies. The model encompasses six unique dimensions: Power Distance, Individualism vs Collectiv ism, Masculinity vs Femininity, Uncertainty Avoidance, Long-Term Orientation, and Indulgence vs Restraint. • Individualism versus Collectivism: How much people look out for themselves or others • Uncertainty Avoidance: How little or much one avoids the unknown • Power Distance: How willing people are to accept an unequal distribution of power • Masculinity verses Femininity: The degree of distinctness between the sexes • Long- versus Short-Term Orientation: Favoring of traditional or modern values • Indulgence versus Restraint: How much people enjoy life or wait for long-term benefits Each element provides insights into how people view them selves, others, and experiences, which in turn can shape com munication. For instance, with regards to the individualism/col lectivism dimension, collectivistic societies tend to favor indirect communications that promote group wellness and cohesiveness, while individualistic cultures prefer direct communications that emphasize personal opinions and achievements (Dhital, 2023).

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As such, if an investigator was working with an individual from a collectivistic culture, focusing on relationship build

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